At Home Colorado: Boulder County Edition

Is Buying a New Home Now Financially Savvy?

Navigate The Shifting Market with Tips from an Experienced Boulder County Lender

Open Homes and Virtual Tour Quick Guide

Looking for a home? View comprehensive listings of local virtual tours and open houses taking place from all across the area.

Real Estate: Homebuyers Stay Engaged in the Face of Challenges

Talk of recession is in the air, mortgage rates are rising and home listing prices remain high, even continuing to climb in some areas like Boulder County. So what does that mean for attitudes about home buying?

Gorgeous Gourds Are Fall Decor Favorites

Fall decor has arrived, and with it comes the most gorgeous gourds! Here’s ways to incorporate into your fall decor.

ATHOMECOLORADO.COM

COLORADO HOME & REAL ESTATE

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Mary Hill

Tom Kalinski

Morgan Rousseau

Hunter Boyce

Duane Duggan

Sarah Huber

Katie Laughridge

Cathy Hobbs

ADVERTISING CONSULTANTS

Thais Hafer

Toni McNeill

REAL ESTATE ADVERTISING DIRECTOR

Mary Romano

MANAGING EDITOR

Greg Stone

Submit your news or home-related events to gstone@dailycamera.com

To advertise, call 303.473.1456.

A Marketing Feature of

REALESTATE Boulder County real estate market update

At Home Colorado is a Marketing Feature that is produced weekly by the Boulder Daily Camera and Longmont Times-Call. dailycamera.com timescall.com athomecolorado.com

The real estate market in Boulder County remained stable in August despite rising interest rates.

longer to sell a home in August compared to July, but it was less than the 90 days it takes in a normal market.

MARY HILL

In fact, the average sales price of single family homes in Boulder priced above $1 million increased compared to July 2022. And, the average price per square foot increased in homes priced between $1 million and $2 million. The percent of the original list price declined slightly to an average of 96.2. This peaked in April at 109.2 percent. It did take a little

HOME & GARDEN EVENTS

“Tipi to Tiny House: Hands-On Homebuilding” exhibit

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Now through Jan. 8, 2022. www.longmontmuseum.org

The Log Home & Timber Frame Show

Oct. 7-9, 1 p.m., The Ranch Events Complex, 5280 Arena Circle, #100, Loveland www.treventscomplex.com/ events/detail/the-log-hometimber-frame-show

Homes in Erie sold quickly as well with the $1 million to $2 million homes selling the fastest. Best of all, the prices remained steady compared to July and sold for close to list price Homes priced above $2 million received the biggest discount to the original list price.

Lafayette had a negligible change in all price ranges in all categories when comparing home sales in July with home sales in August. However, days on market increased significantly, except in the $500,000 to $1 million price range.

Longmont continued its stellar sales pace. The price per square foot in Longmont increased in every price range except at $2 million and above. With only one home sold at this price point it is difficult to quantify a trend.

This data confirms that Boulder County is a great place to invest your housing money. With other localities seeing dramatic market shifts downward, Boulder County’s real estate market is on an even keel, so far

Mary Hill is a Realtor at Mary Hill Properties. Call 720.272.5448, e mail mary@maryhillproperties.com or visit maryhillproperties com

Lunch n’ Learn Gardening Class: Great Plants for Fall Color (Virtual Event)

PresentedbyNorthernColorado

Libraries&CSUExtension Oct. 12, Noon to 1 p.m., www.lovgov.org/Home/ Components/Calendar/Event/99 531/20?curm=10&cury=2022

Resource Central Tool Sale Oct. 15, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m Resource Central, 6400 Arapahoe Road, Boulder

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Aging at Altitude Expo & Job Fair

PresentedbytheBoulderDaily CameraandLongmontTimes-Call Oct. 22, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Boulder JCC, 6007 Oreg Ave., Boulder, www.dailycamera.com/aging.

Send us your home/garden events, email gstone@prairiemountainmedia.com.

View more events at DailyCamera.com/ Calendar or TimesCall.com/Calendar.

Homebuyers nationwide stay engaged in the face of challenges

Talk of recession is in the air, mortgage rates are rising and home listing prices remain high, even continuing to climb in some areas like Boulder County.

So what does that mean for attitudes about home buying?

Among nationwide homebuyers who say we are currently in a recession, nearly 46% report it will have no effect on their decision to purchase a home in the next six months, according to a recent Realtor com survey of website visitors of listings and search results That number has increased from pre pandemic 2019 when 43 9% were planning to buy a home within the next six months, but has decreased from nearly 50% in 2021.

Additionally, more than 24% of 2022 survey respondents say a recession will make them more likely to purchase a home

A large number of buyers in all stages of home purchasing 40.5% think the U.S. economy is already in recession An even greater number of first time buyers 45.3% believe the recession is already here, the survey results show.

This year has been challenging for buyers, making their hold on

Overall

a positive attitude toward home buying notable. Home prices saw double digit increases in much of the nation throughout the year and mortgage rates have continued to rise.

In Boulder County, August median prices increased year over year, according to statistics from the Boulder Longmont Realtors trade association (BOLO Realtors). Increases ranged from less than 3% in the Plains market area to more than 46% in Niwot. Boulder’s median price rose 14%, Erie 17%, Lafayette 21 3%, Longmont 14.5%, Louisville 20%, Lyons 17.6%, the

Mountains 4 3%, and Superior 12.7%, reports BOLO Realtors.

For first time homebuyers, nationwide rents rose significantly reaching “new record levels for 17 months in a row. It’s no wonder that 34.5% of all buyers and 40.5% of first time homebuyers in our survey report that their budget has been a challenge to their home buying experience,” writes Realtor com

On the flip side, competition among homebuyers has begun to ease Only 9 4% of buyers across the country reported being overbid, a decrease from 12.6% in April 2022. But first time homebuyers still face a competitive market, with a greater percentage 12.2% reporting being overbid

Contrary to a national increase in the number of days homes are for sale, most areas in the Boulder Valley have seen homes stay on the market for fewer days in August this year compared to 2021, according to the BOLO Realtors statistics. Homes in the Mountain market area are for sale for 50 days on average down 25%, Boulder homes are on the market 37 days down 23%, and Niwot homes sit for 38 days 19% fewer days on average year over year than 2021

Across the nation, buyers are more willing to move cross county and explore smaller markets. Nearly 50% are

looking for a home in a small town or rural area Some are also seeking smaller homes with 8.4% seeking condos and apartments, the highest percentage since January 2019, reports Realtor.com. In an all time survey high, 33.6% of buyers are looking at purchasing in another state

In a randomized survey of visitors to listing and search result pages on the site, Realtor com asked respondents reasons for visiting the site, engagement with the housing market, and how current market conditions are impacting their behavior.

Overall survey results paint a picture of belief in homeownership as a positive financial choice and buyer savviness to prepare to buy during a drop in home prices and activity.

See the full survey results at www.realtor.com/research/july 2022 site visitor survey

Tom Kalinski is the broker/ owner of RE/MAX of Boulder, the local residential real estate company he established in 1977 He was inducted into Boulder County’s Business Hall of Fame in 2016 and has a 40 year background in commercial and residential real estate. For questions, email Tom at tomkalinski33@gmail com, call 303.441.5620, or visit boulderco.com.

TOM KALINSKI

front

piece bath. This

backs of the home

ASKANGI

How can the Inflation Reduction Act help me as a homeowner?

By Morgan Rousseau Ask Angi (TNS)

President Joe Biden signed the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 (IRA) into law on Aug. 16, calling it “the most aggressive action ever” to confront the climate crisis and strengthen the nation’s economic and energy security.

But for homeowners, the IRA promises a welcome boost for residential energy upgrades. As part of the bill’s focus on energy security and climate change investment, households will get tax credits to help offset home improvements that lower energy costs while reducing carbon emissions by up to 40% by 2030.

Do I qualify for home improvements under the Inflation Reduction Act?

If you’re a homeowner, you will qualify for upfront discounts or tax credits on home energy projects that may also lower your monthly utility bills. If you’re in the market for a new car, you qualify for a tax credit if you buy an electric car or plug-in hybrid vehicle. In order to qualify for a rebate, your family’s total annual income must be less than 150% of your community’s median income.

Here’s a breakdown of the IRA’s most significant provisions for homeowners.

High Efficiency Electric Home Rebate Act

The High-Efficiency Electric Home Rebate Act (HEEHRA) lets homeowners take advantage of rebates for certain electrification projects. Households with a median income level under 80% of the area median income can get up to 100% of their project covered, up to $14,000, and households earning between 80% and 150% of the area median income can recoup 50% of the cost, also up to $14,000.

HEEHRA rebates cover both installation and material costs.

You can visit your state government’s website to determine where your household falls. Some states offer tables that show a household’s income level based on annual income, municipality, and the number of people living in the house. There are also online calculators that let you enter that information to determine your household’s income level

Projects include:

• Heat pump HVAC systems

• Electric stoves and cooktops

• Heat pump water heaters

• Heat pump clothes dryers

• Circuit panel upgrades

• Insulation upgrades

• Ventilation upgrades

• Wiring upgrades

Energy efficiency credits

The IRA’s Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit renames a nonbusiness energy property tax credit that expired at the end of 2021 and extends it

through 2032 But it’s gotten a boost. The provision now lets you claim credit for 30% (up from 10%) of what you pay to install upgraded heat pumps, insulation, breaker boxes, biomass stoves and other energy-saving systems that meet efficiency criteria. There is an annual cap, however, of $2,000, with lower caps for certain specific items such as doors and windows.

The New Energy Efficient Home credit incentivizes developers to build greener homes by offering a credit of up to $5,000. To qualify, builders must construct homes that qualify for the Department of Energy’s (DOE) Zero Energy Ready Homes Standard

Homeowners can cut 30% of their solar costs from their federal taxes under the Residential Clean Energy Credit, which runs through 2032. The credit goes toward the cost of solar panels and other solar products for the home. One major perk of this program: There’s no cap on how much you can spend You’ll get the tax

break regardless of how much your solar projects cost.

Drivers considering going electric or installing an electric car charging station in their home should take advantage of the IRA’s Clean Vehicle credit. Under the program, those who buy electric or plug-in hybrid cars or trucks can get a $7,500 tax credit for new vehicles and $4,000 for used ones.

Can I start accessing benefits now?

Consumers can start to reap some of the IRA’s energy-related home improvement benefits immediately. The Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit goes into effect this year, as does the Residential Clean Energy Credit. Also, the electric vehicle tax credit goes into effect immediately But in practice, you won’t see the actual financial benefit until you file your 2022 tax return next year

Tweet your home care questions with #AskingAngi and we’ll try to answer them in a future column. Visit angi.com.

The Inflation Reduction Act contains tax credits and rebates for various home energy efficiency upgrades, including charging stations for electric cars (Photo: Dreamstime/TNS)

By Hunter Boyce, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution (TNS)

From buying to renting to selling, real estate scams can target landlords and local residents in many situations. It’s a criminal practice that can seriously damage your wallet, credit and peace of mind.

Wire scams

According to Realtor.com, one of the common real estate fakeouts is the wire scam

“This is basically a scam where someone pretends to be your real estate agent by hacking into or copying their contact information and calling you to deposit good-faith money or an earnest deposit into a fake bank account,” Ron Wysocarski, a real estate broker based in Port Orange, FL, told Realtor.com.

Before fulfilling any money transfer requests, Wysocarski said it is important to meet your real estate agent face to face to ensure everything is on the up and up.

Foreclosure relief scams

For those on the brink of losing their homes, not all financial relief opportunities are legitimate.

In foreclosure relief scams, scammers target individuals on the brink of losing their homes, Rocket Mortgage reported. A fake company will reach out to the victim with promises that it can stop the foreclosure or

modify a loan in exchange for payment. It’s a scam.

To avoid the scam, Rocket Mortgage said that you should never pay for a service before it has been completed. The company also suggested researching the individual or company that is promising to help you.

Fake listing scams

Another popular scheme is the fake listing scam, according to Bank Rate. Scammers will post fake property listings on Craigslist, social media or any other platform that interested buyers may wander onto. While the photos they use may be from real listings, their offers are anything but.

The scammers will usually ask for an upfront payment to allow you to visit the listed property Be suspicious of anyone that asks for upfront deposits to see a property.

“Avoid doing transactions via email or on the phone,” Nicole Durosko of Warburg Realty told Bank Rate. “It’s best to be face to-face to confirm the property ownership, sign any required documentation and make a payment.”

“We buy homes!” scams

Somewhere along the road in your travels, you have likely seen a flier that advertises a business or individual willing to buy your house. More often than not, according to Finance Buzz, it’s a

scam.

The scam usually promises homeowners quick cash for their houses. To convince you to sign over your deed to them early, they will promise a fast payout. However, the scammers will have control over your property once the deed has been signed over, still leaving you on the hook for the monthly mortgage

payments.

Finance Buzz reported that it’s important to pay attention to the details to avoid these scams. It is unlikely that a legitimate business is advertising their services on a cheaply printed flier placed on the side of a road or asking you to sign partially blank or complicated documents.

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Ski Country Getaway: Part 2

Have you been thinking about buying a vacation home in ski country for you and your family to enjoy? There are quite a few things to consider in order to make the vacation home buying experience a happy one. In my previous article, Part 1 of this twopart series, I discussed goals for your ski home, rental income, and professional property management. In this article, I will outline further considerations that will help guide you toward your purchase.

Should I rent the vacation home long term?

In order to have a vacation home for the future, some families have bought a home and immediately leased it to a long-term tenant, say for a year or more. This is because a longterm tenant right now will help pay for the current expenses of owning it. Then later down the road, say in 10 years, you can stop renting it out and use it if for yourself as a vacation home, or maybe even as your retirement home.

If it is treated as an investment, are there any tax benefits or ramifications?

As with any investment, it is a good idea to discuss with your tax advisor if there are any tax issues to consider 2018 brought about key changes in tax reform. Be sure to ask how those changes might affect your ski home purchase.

A few questions might be:

• Can I deduct the mortgage interest?

• Can I take depreciation?

• If it is an investment, is there a limit on the number of personal days I can use it for?

• What expenses of running the property can I deduct?

• If it’s a rental, and I want to depreciate it, what is the maximum number of days it can be used personally?

House trading possibilities?

Vacation homeowners will often buy a property for the possibility to use as “currency” to trade for other places to vacation. This helps keep lodging costs down at the places you might like to vacation in. Swap homes with your friends and networks -- or check out various websites that enable you to trade homes in destinations across the world.

Is financing different for a vacation home?

Most any 1- to 4-unit mortgage lender can help you finance a vacation home. They will typically qualify you under normal underwriting guidelines. However, it is usually a good idea to use a lender that is familiar with vacation properties.

Can I buy a vacation home with my IRA?

I get asked this question a lot. Yes, you can buy a vacation home with funds from your IRA. You just can’t use it personally. You also need to set up a selfdirected IRA account. So why would you want to do that?

Let’s say you live in Boulder and eventually want to retire in Summit County. You can buy a condo in Summit County with your IRA and rent it out full time as an investment for your IRA. Then when it comes time to move in, you need to disburse it from your IRA, pay any applicable taxes, and you can use it personally There are

There are many details to evaluate when buying a ski country getaway or vacation property. (Photo: Annie Spratt / Unsplash)

a lot more details you need to consider here. In future articles, I will cover investing in real estate using your IRA.

Exit strategy or succession planning?

The idea of having a ski home can be very exciting, nevertheless, some planning needs to be done with regard to selling the property when your family is done with it -- or figuring out how to keep the property in the family If a couple, for example, owns a vacation home and they have 4 kids, when the couple passes away, suddenly the property has 4 owners. Those kids will have their own children and in just 3 generations there could be 10 to 20 owners. With 10 to 20 owners, you can imagine there can be many different opinions as to what to do with the property Some of the new owners may view the ownership more as a burden than a benefit. Taking some time to create a

succession plan is worth the time and effort. Generally, it is a good idea to find an attorney with experience in creating succession plans for vacation homes. They will listen to the family’s needs and goals and create a plan that works.

There are many details to evaluate when buying a ski country getaway or vacation property. As you examine the idea of purchasing a vacation home, I recommend you pull together a team that includes a mortgage loan officer, tax accountant, financial planner, property manager, insurance agent, Realtor – and possibly an estate planning lawyer – to consult with.

Duane has been a Realtor for RE/MAX of Boulder since 1982. Living the life of a Realtor and being immersed in real estate led to the inception of his book, Realtor for Life. For questions, e mail DuaneDuggan@boulderco com, call 303.441.5611 or visit boulderco com

Is Buying a New Home Now Financially Savvy?

By Sarah Huber for At Home Colorado

Regardless of interest rates, jobs change, retirees downsize to main floor conveniences, couples dream of buying their first home life goes on. But given today’s market, is it better to wait to buy that new house, sidelining the lifestyle you crave, or is it financially wiser to take advantage of the equity you have now?

First Creek Lending president Trevor Bellows shared his experience and expertise to help potential home buyers determine whether to wait, sell or buy.

Wanting to move, yet not sure if you should in today’s market?

“I think there’s a lot of people that are sitting at home wishing they could buy a new home but are being told by the media, or maybe even friends and family, that they are crazy to move in this market,” said Jessica Champlin, Boulder Creek Neighborhoods’ chief revenue officer “The benefit of Trevor and his team at First Creek Lending is that they can help you determine if you’re really crazy or not.” She continued with a laugh, “Okay, not actually crazy, but they can put numbers to your individual situation and determine what makes sense for you.” While First Creek

Lending is the Boulder Creek Neighborhoods’ preferred lender, Boulder Creek buyers may use any lender of choice

What interest rates really mean for buyers

First, perspective is crucial, Bellows said: “Rates are still low by comparison to the last 40 plus years,” with rates climbing to more than 15 percent in the early 1980s. Bellows explained, “The interest rate on a mortgage is a function of your total payment, that’s it ” And while it’s true that interest rates have risen over the last several months, a bigger rate number doesn’t necessarily mean that a new home is unrealistic. “Instead of

looking at the interest rate as a number, we’ll look at it in the context of your gross income, to your down payment, to the purchase price of the new home, among other factors,” says Bellows. He continues, “On average the difference between an interest rate of three percent and six percent is seven percent of an average monthly income in Boulder County”

That said, rates are only one of several factors to consider before a move “Rates are not a function of what your family may need,” said Bellows For example, an empty nester living in a home that has four bedrooms, several flights of stairs, and an aging set of appliances may be significantly

happier in a new, lower maintenance patio home that’s right sized to their needs. “I don’t know of a way to put a dollar amount to that kind of peace of mind,” said Bellows.

Again Bellows pulls it back to perspective: “Sometimes folks feel that their lower interest is a badge of honor, something to not be left behind. But if you can’t just as easily state the return percentage on your 401K or other investment accounts, then why are you so tied to your current interest rate?”

He added, “Remember you can refinance and remember time the sooner you get into real estate, especially something more suited to your needs, the better.”

Time is on your side

For potential home buyers in Boulder County, the majority of whom value the lifestyle and amenities that a home tailored to their needs offers, “every year that you wait to buy real estate is another year you lose out on principal reduction, potential price increases, potential interest rate increases and our natural enemy, time,” Bellows said. After all, a year not in the house that fits you best is, for instance, a year away from the schools you want for your kids or the lower maintenance, main floor conveniences you’ve been holding out for in your retirement years

Bellows provided another example for buyers inclined to

wait for interest rates to drop (always a gamble, he admitted). Applying a conservative estimate of five percent annual home appreciation (Denver’s average price appreciation prior to 2020 was about six percent), a home that costs $650,000 today could be expected to cost up to $683,000 next year In theory, that’s either a $33,000 higher price tag, or $33,000 in equity, depending on when the home is purchased.

“Real estate has historically been a sound investment,” Bellows concluded, “and you’ll benefit from your home’s appreciation” much more, historically, than you’ll benefit by waiting out the interest rate game In sum, these numbers suggest it’s to your advantage to crunch numbers with a lender and see if delaying a move is worth it or if buying now is financially savvy

Consider what you lose by staying put

At Boulder Creek Neighborhoods, Champlin noted that “we work with people every day seeking a new home to improve their lifestyle.” What’s more, many homeowners have experienced significant price appreciation over the past few years, giving buyers the opportunity to take advantage of the equity they have to achieve the lifestyle they want. “Just because rates aren’t what they were certainly doesn’t mean a new home is out of the picture,” offers Bellows Sales managers at Boulder Creek Neighborhoods walk home buyers through the sales process every step of the way to find a home that meets their lifestyle and financial needs No matter the market, “holding onto a home that doesn’t suit your need doesn’t make much sense,”

Champlin said

This is especially significant to Champlin because she’s part of a company that emphasizes “lifefullness” what Boulder Creek Neighborhoods calls “a life fully lived, a home that sets one’s best intentions free.” Between the lending and buying process to moving into an efficient home that meets your unique needs and season of life, Boulder Creek aims to streamline the entire experience and make it as pleasant and convenient as possible. This focus on “lifefullness” is on display in every home Boulder Creek builds, from Lanterns at Rock Creek to their newest enclave, West Edge at Colliers Hill, where lower maintenance conveniences meet main floor living in exceptionally designed communities.

“We encourage our buyers to do their research,” Champlin said “Whether or not they go with First Creek Lending as our preferred lender, we are here to help them make the ideal choice for their situation and find the home that fits their lifestyle.”

To learn more about First Creek Lending and to connect with a loan originator, visit firstcreeklending com To learn more about the conveniences of lower maintenance living in a Boulder Creek Neighborhoods home, visit livebouldercreek.com or call Boulder Creek’s online concierge at 303.309.0088.

First Creek Lending team (Photo: Jonathan Castner)

Gorgeous gourds are fall decor favorites

By Katie Laughridge Tribune News Service (TNS)

Fall decor has arrived, and with it comes the most gorgeous gourds!

Pumpkins and gourds are one of the most widely recognized symbols of fall in North America and have been featured in both outdoor and indoor decor for centuries. A symbol of a bountiful harvest, these versatile beauties can add a seasonal touch to any room, which is why, perhaps, I love them so much. Here are a few ways we’ve incorporated pumpkins and gourds into our fall decor

Monochrome moments

Sprinkling a collection of white gourds throughout the living room lends the spirit of autumn without overpowering the initial design and flow of the space. While a single pumpkin on a coffee table is definitely a stately look, and as the kids are saying these days, it’s “a vibe.”

The aesthetic makes the most impact in larger quantities. In this beautiful shelving display, monochromatic gourds placed at differing sight levels move your eye throughout the entire piece while complementing the neutral elements that were already at

play Adding a collection of gourds of varying size on the coffee table pulls the theme to the center of the room, giving it depth.

Rustic elegance

Nothing beats the beautiful hues that this season brings. Rich golds, vibrant oranges, deep reds, each of them beg for attention. We want you to feel the fall opulence, so we decked out our beautiful gazebo – we’ve nicknamed it the Pumpkin Palace – for the occasion.

We paired mountains of pumpkins and fall decor with a few supporting roles. The black and-white buffalo check pattern is a perfect nod to autumn, and the brass elements like those candlesticks fit in perfectly with the rainbow of colors. This look is perfect for those who aren’t afraid to go all-in in seasonal decorating.

Bountiful harvest

We can’t resist bringing the beauty of the season to our tabletops, where we’ve paired pumpkin-shaped soup tureens (a good tureen is a must for the fall season!) with elegant seasonal place settings and an autumnal plaid runner for a tabletop that is inviting and warm. Warm

wood tones anchor the design and lend to the unassuming element that makes this table all the more charming.

Incorporating gourds into your fall decor

Instead of just placing your gourds on your coffee table or strewing them about randomly through your space, think like a designer and take the opportunity to get a little creative. With some thought and purposeful placement, these fall squashes will look totally chic I love the idea of adding them to a cloche or turning your mantel into a pumpkin patch.

At just a few dollars a piece, you’ll want to stock up on plenty Remember, these scrumptious squash make the most impact in design when used in groupings (we recommend grouping in odd numbers of things: three, five, seven, nine and so on). Whether you incorporate them into your spooky Halloween decorations or you arrange them in a lovely Thanksgiving cornucopia, they’ll look festive all season long.

(Adapted from nellhills.com. Katie Laughridge is the owner of Kansas City interior design destination Nell Hill’s. For more information, contact Katie at info@nellhills.com.)

A series of cloches featuring gourds of all shapes and sizes (Handout/TNS)

LEFT: A fall themed tablescape features white pumpkin soup tureens, an autum nal plaid runner, and seasonal green and cream dishes RIGHT: White pumpkins of various sizes are featured throughout a stately living room (Handout/TNS)

at Rock Creek

HOME 4 benefits of adding a fireplace to your home

Family Features

Whether you’re constructing a new home or simply redesigning your current living space, there are many considerations that can truly make a house a home.

Amid budget considerations, design vision boards, specs and blueprints, amenities like a new fireplace can allow homeowners to celebrate the warmth, comfort and ambiance a fireplace or other hearth product can provide. In fact, 7 out of 10 of homeowners have a fireplace and usage has increased during all four seasons since 2020, according to research from the Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association (HPBA), showcasing that including a fireplace in your construction or renovation plans is a gift to yourself and your family

“When we’re designing our ideal homes, too often we may only think about what we want others to see and enjoy when they visit,” said Jack Goldman, president and CEO for HPBA. “The reality is visitors account for less than 1% of your inhome time. A fireplace is for you and your family, a personal addition that serves you and your household in more ways than you may realize.”

Consider these four benefits of including a fireplace as part of your next home update:

It can be a sanctuary from the ever changing world outside

As people continue to spend more time at home, a fireplace can serve as a source of calm and relaxation, helping you and your family escape from the challenges daily life may throw your way.

It’s an artful piece of decor to display year-round

Whether it’s a centerpiece for your living room or family room, or an accent to your

bedroom, bathroom or study, a creatively designed fireplace can provide an artful design element for your home, no matter the season.

It’s a safe, reliable heating source

A fireplace is an extra layer of security when weather wreaks havoc and can provide safe, reliable heat and lighting in the event of a power outage

It can be the heartbeat of your home

Between screen time, remote work schedules and commitments to extracurricular activities, many families experience fragmented home lives. A fireplace, though, can serve as a central gathering spot for you and your loved ones when together

To learn more about the benefits of fireplaces and find a nationwide directory of specialty retailers and certified installers, visit HPBA.org/House-warming.

Fireplace safety tips

Whether it’s the warm glow of the fire, the crackle of the wood or the deep penetrating warmth, woodburning fireplaces have a way of making people feel relaxed and at home. However, there are some precautions that should be taken to ensure safe operation:

• Never leave a fire unattended.

• Keep a fire extinguisher on hand.

• Keep small children and pets away from the fireplace.

• Clear an area of at least 3 feet around the fireplace of furniture, books, newspaper and other potentially flammable materials.

• Inspect gaskets, door seals and the chimney annually

• Have the chimney professionally cleaned as necessary to ensure it’s clear of obstructions and creosote.

• Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.

• Utilize fireplace tools to tend the fire.

• Never burn garbage, rolled newspaper, charcoal, plastic or chemically treated or painted wood.

• Avoid using gasoline or any liquid accelerant to help start a fire.

• Do not overload the fireplace to avoid burning wood or embers tumbling out.

• Never close the damper until embers have completely stopped burning.

(Photo courtesy of Getty Images)

Party & Model Home Tour

HOME BUILDERS

BOULDER, BROOMFIELD & LONGMONT AREA

BOULDER

1 Velo Condos Builder: Thistle Velo LLC

BROOMFIELD

8 Baseline Colorado Builders: Boulder Creek Neighborhoods, Meritage Homes, Thrive Home Builders

7 Vive on Via Varra Builder: Meritage Homes

ERIE

22 Coal Creek Commons Builder: Century Communities

23 Colliers Hill Builders: Boulder Creek Neighborhoods, KB Home, Richmond American

20 Compass Builder: Lennar

21 Erie Commons Builder: Boulder Creek Neighborhoods

24 Erie Highlands Builder: Oakwood Homes

Our region is home to more than 300,000 residents and includes some of the most diverse, natural landscapes and sustainable development along the Northern Front Range of Colorado.

From open space, land use and sustainability policies to forwardthinking and compassionate human services programs, our city and town governments help foster a vibrant, healthy and active community It’s no wonder why those who live here stay and why our the area is coveted as a place to relocate to. Here we highlight a selection of the area’s new home communities and which builders are building where.

To view new home communities and builders across the Colorado Front Range, view our interactive map online at: www AtHomeColorado.com/NewHomeMap

FREDERICK

Erie Village Builder: Porchfront Homes

18 Flatiron Meadows Builder: KB Home, Taylor Morrison, Toll Brothers

26 Morgan Hill Builder: Lennar

Rex Ranch Builder: Taylor Morrison

Westerly Builder: McStain Neighborhoods, SLC Homes, Wonderland Homes

Wild Rose Builder: Lennar

FIRESTONE

Barefoot Lakes Builder: Brookfield Residential, Creekstone Homes, Lennar, Richmond American Homes

10 Seasons at Silverstone Builder: Richmond American Homes

LAFAYETTE

15 Blue Sage Builder: Markel Homes

Avalon Meadows Builder: Von’s Colorado Concepts

Silo Builder: Cornerstone Homes

Silver Creek Builder: Markel Homes

LOUISVILLE

North End Builder: Markel Homes

SUPERIOR

3 Downtown Superior Builder: Thrive Home Builders, Remington Homes

4 Heights at Downtown Superior Builder: Toll Brothers

5 Lanterns at Rock Creek Builder: Boulder Creek Neighborhoods

6 Montmere at Autrey Shores Builder: Koelbel

2 Rogers Farm Builder: Boulder Creek Neighborhoods

LONGMONT

11 Highlands at Fox Hill Builders: Dream Finders Homes, Landmark Homes

Parkside Builder: Coast to Coast Development

29 Terry Street Townhones Builder: New Leaf Properties

FIND

DREAM

Master modern old-world charm with these tips

By Cathy Hobbs Tribune News Service (TNS)

As the old saying goes, what’s old is new again. This certainly applies to home decor and interior design. One moment a trend is hot, then goes out of style, only to return. Certain styles are also timeless. The expression “old-world charm” can be interpreted in different ways, but it typically signals a design that is classic and timeless. One way to create a look that is fresh and relevant is to modernize these elements. Here are some top tips.

Do’s

1. Do source locally. Local stores and boutiques are great for one-of-a-kind finds.

2. Do consider the works of artists and artisans. This is a wonderful way to

incorporate craftsmanship and customization.

3. Do incorporate greenery, as it can help to create a feeling of coziness.

4. Do bring in texture and tactile elements such as thick rugs and fabrics for upholstery

5. Do use a classic color palette to create a timeless look and feel.

Don’ts

1. Don’t ignore the timelessness of antiques, even if just a single heirloom piece

2. Don’t use elements that are

overly modern or trendy.

3. Don’t use colors that overly dark or warm. Creating a sense of contrast will help keep a space open and airy.

4. Don’t ignore architectural elements and details. Instead of painting or covering up original detail, refurbish, enhance and preserve.

5. Don’t overlook the power of mirrors to enhance and open various rooms and spaces.

Cathy Hobbs, based in New York City, is an Emmy Awardwinning television host and a nationally known interior design and home staging expert with offices in New York City, Boston and Washington, D.C Contact her at info@cathyhobbs.com or visit cathyhobbs.com.

An

artwork (Photo: Cathy Hobbs/TNS)

Kitchen w/granite,

appls,

Bdrms

w/rough-in

firepit.Vivint

Open House // Virtual Tour

QUICK GUIDE

THIS WEEK’S OPEN HOUSES/VIRTUAL TOURS // OPENHOMES.ATHOMECOLORADO.COM

BOULDER

3735 Birchwood Drive, #26 $325,000

Sat. & Sun., 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Bruce Drogsvold

WK Real Estate (303) 579-1627

1515 Zamia Ave., #5 $778,000

Sat., 1 to 3 p.m. Beth Goltz

WK Real Estate (303) 570-9906

4206 Greenbriar Blvd. $795,000

Sun., 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Lynn Ryan RE/MAX of Boulder (303) 489-0309

2190 Dartmouth Ave. $999,900

Sat., 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Margaret Flaherty WK Real Estate (303) 668-2926

1070 Toedtli Drive $1,050,000

Sat., 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Jan Marose RE/MAX Alliance (303) 817-9675

315 Arapahoe Ave 201 $1,150,000

Sun., Noon to 2 p.m. Pamela B. Griffin

Pamela Griffin Realty (303) 931-5321

2502 Vine Place $1,195,000

Sun., 1 to 3 p.m. Dale Pearson RE/MAX of Boulder (303) 818-5640

751 Racquet Lane $1,400,000

Sun., 1 to 3 p.m. Judy Pitt

WK Real Estate (303) 324-4747

820 16th St

$2,650,000

Sat., 2 to 4 p.m.

Sun., Noon to 2 p.m. Keith McQuillen

WK Real Estate (303) 589-1432

7538 Spring Drive

$3,450,000

Sun., 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Karen Bernardi

The Bernardi Group (303) 402-6000

GREELEY

200 N. 50th Ave. $425,000

Sun., 1 to 3 p.m. Laura Chittick WK Real Estate (303) 332-4118

LAFAYETTE

1005 Malory St. $565,000

Sun., Noon to 2 p.m. Jim Thomas RE/MAX Alliance (303) 543-0625

452 Levi Lane (Sales Center)

Starting from $579,900

Sat. & Sun., 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Marlita Lazo Markel Homes (303) 651-9565

382 Fern Lake Court $650,000

Sat. & Sun., Noon to 3 p.m. Jamie Zimmerman RE/MAX Alliance (303) 807-1302

2740 Meadow Mountain Trail $899,000

Sat., 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sun., Noon to 2 p.m. Cheryl Shatz RE/MAX Alliance (303) 570-0949

LONGMONT

2103 Meadow Court, Unit F $389,000

Sun., 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Jon Hatch

RE/MAX of Boulder (303) 513-2834

2101 Santa Fe Drive $581,900

Sun., 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Regan Sample EXP Realty LLC (720) 438-5585

5801 Grandville Ave. (Sales Center)

Starting from $599,900

Sat. & Sun., 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Roz Pinon Markel Homes (720) 583-2170

817 Robert Street $725,000

Sat., 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Kit Magley RE/MAX Alliance (303) 775-5177

2115 Springs Place $775,000

Sun., 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Mary Romano RE/MAX Alliance (303) 588-8433

3678 Dahlia Way $874,999

Sat., 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Tina Discipio RE/MAX of Boulder (720) 320-2429

1501 Stardance $1,190,000

Sun., 1 to 3 p.m. Kit Magley RE/MAX Alliance (303) 775-5177

1615 Turin Drive $1,225,000

Sat., 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sun., 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Matthew Jensen

WK Real Estate (303) 819-6494

6256 Ephesus Road $1,240,000

Sat., 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Jan Johnson RE/MAX Momentum (303) 847-2432

LOUISVILLE

324 Peerless $779,000

Sun., 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tom Precourt RE/MAX Alliance (303) 921-9080

LOVELAND

2924 Cub Lake Drive $545,000

Sat., & Sun., 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Liz Stevens RE/MAX Alliance - Fort Collins (970) 988-0293

LYONS

926 4th Ave $695,000

Sat., 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. Jim Green

WK Real Estate (303) 775-2553

MILLIKEN

1909 Wagon Train Drive $469,500

Sat., 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Sun., 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. Amy Darcy LoKation Real Estate (303) 725-3756

List Your Open House or Virtual Tour, Visit: openhomes athomecolorado com